Active Feet Podiatry

Welcome

Dr Tim Halpine has been busy for the last 24 years helping people from all walks of life on the road to pain free feet.

His patients range from top international athletes, business and political figures, to the elderly and young children.

He and his friendly office manager Jo, will make you comfortable and explain the treatment provided.

Dr Halpine's Doctorate of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) has provided a sound medical basis for his practice skills. He is committed to offering the best care available.

Tim works alongside associate podiatrist, Cathy Wright, who has been working with Dr Halpine for the last 5 years. She has a Masters in Musculoskeletal Management and 15 years experience.

Foot Conditions

Arch and heel pain/plantar fasciitis

A very common complaint is that of a painful heel and/or arch in the morning, on first standing. This is usually caused by strain to the ligament called the plantar fascia, which is stretched when the arch lowers with each step we take. This condition responds very satisfactorily with treatment. These include stretching exercises, that Dr. Halpine will demonstrate, and with the provision of orthotic devices.

Knee pain/shinsplints

Many people suffer with pain along the shin bone or in the knee region while walking or running. Quite frequently these aches are due to biomechanical imbalances of the feet and legs. The muscles must overwork in order to try to stabilize an excessive foot motion called subtalar joint hyperpronation. Your podiatrist can examine your mechanics and offer relief from these symptoms.

Corns and hammer toes

When toes rub against the shoe, the pressure can cause pain and the formation of corns. This problem is first treated through trimming and attention to shoe fit.

Bunions

A bunion is a prominence on the inside of the foot near the big toe. It also causes the drift of the big toe toward the second. The causes of bunions include: heredity, wear and tear, and a flexible low-arched foot-type. Dr. Halpine can slow bunion development with orthotic devices.

Diabetic foot care

Early diagnosis, preventive treatment and patient education are crucial in helping to avoid severe complications of diabetes such as the loss of digits and limbs to infection. All patients with diabetes should see a Podiatrist at least once a year.

Ingrown/fungal nails

Toenails often begin to grow into the flesh causing infection and pain. Dr. Halpine can give both short-term and permanent relief with minor surgery. Thickened, yellowing, crumbling nails may be caused by a fungal infection. This may spread from one toe to the next or one family member to another. Depending on the severity, Dr. Halpine may recommend an oral medication to remedy this problem.

Achilles Tendonitis

With each step of a pronated (flattened) foot, the achilles is twisted. Multiply this twisting by tens of thousands of steps and achilles tendonitis can result. Dr. Halpine can assist this condition by fitting orthotic devices to stabilize the feet.

Children's feet

Many parents are concerned if their children's feet point inwards or outwards or appear to have extremely flat arches. Children who are late walkers or complain of sore legs at night may need extra support provided in their shoes. Adolescents frequently suffer a strain to the growth plate within the heel bone, suffering particularly after sport. This condition may be caused by Sever's Disease, for which Dr Halpine prescribe appropriate rest, stretching exercises and soft orthotic devices. We can offer early diagnosis and treatment which can assist your child in having a lifetime of foot comfort.

Warts/Verrucae

Verrucae are caused by a virus that infects the first layer of skin. They cause a disruption in the skin's normal growth pattern. They are painful to walk on and contagious. Dr. Halpine can offer relief, most often through complete surgical removal of the wart.

Athletes foot/tinea

Athlete's foot is a fungal condition of the skin that can cause redness, cracks, burning and itching. Blisters may form on the skin. It is important that the correct diagnosis be made and treatment started by your Podiatrist.

Neuroma/pinched nerve

A neuroma is an enlarged nerve that passes between the metatarsal heads at the base of the toes. This may cause pain or numbness in the forefoot or out into the toes.

Patients often seek relief by removing their shoes and bending the toes. Specially designed orthotic devices to spread the metatarsal bones are largely successful to control this condition.

If necessary Dr. Halpine can offer more invasive treatments.

ACC treatments by your Podiatrist

It is now possible to directly attend your Podiatrist with accidents and injuries. Dr Halpine and his staff can advise as to if and how ACC may be utilised in your case.

Orthotic Solutions / 3D Foot Scanner

Footbalance orthotics can be fitted by Dr Halpine. These orthotics are 100% custom moulded and are durable, lasting for up to 3 years. They represent an innovative new solution for orthotic fitting. Dr Halpine is proud to be the sole producer of Footbalance orthotics in the Wellington region.

iPad 3D Foot Scanner

Dr Halpine has a system to 3D scan your feet in seconds with the addition of two components: a Structure Sensor and a foot scanning App called AOMS TOT. Scanning takes 10-20 seconds per foot and a 3D image of the foot can then be viewed on screen. These 3D scanned images are sent to our laboratory, Ganley orthotics, to create your custom orthotics solution.

Where We Are

The Terrace

Active Feet Podiatry is conveniently located on The Terrace, Wellington at number 85 on Level 2